Kicker Report: Leverkusen prepare to cut Azhil loose and shop Pohjanpalo
German footballing magazine Kicker reports that two current Bayer 04 Leverkusen loanees are likely to depart the club for good this summer.
Finnish striker Joel Pohjanpalo (on loan at Çaykur Rizespor in the Turkish Süper Lig) and Moroccan central midfielder Ayman Azhil (on loan at Dutch Erdevisie club RKC Waalwijk since October 0f 2020) are technically due back at Germany's red company team after the season concludes.
German footballing magazine Kicker nevertheless reports that neither player factors into the long-term plans of Bayer 04 Leverkusen. The Bayer managerial team is reportedly content to allow Azhil to remain with his current Dutch side via a free transfer.
In the case of Pohjanpalo, who has increased his market value significantly via 14 goals in the Turkish top flight, die Werkself will be shopping for a buyer. With Rizespor set to be relegated, the 27-year-old Finnish international has no future in Turkey.
It might still be the case that his current parent club can cash in on him to the tune of €3 to €5 million. German clubs where Pohjanpalo had successful loan stints--Fortuna Düsseldorf, Hamburger SV, and 1. FC Union Berlin--might count as prospective buyers.